In the first half, USA dominated possession and had plenty of shots on goals, but going into halftime Team USA had nothing to show for its effort with the halftime score of being 0-0 or what many in soccer circles call “Nil-Nil”. The USA continued to attack till the 69th minute with a goal by Alex Morgan, “who scored in consecutive matches” and the countdown began for America to celebrate bringing the crown back to the States.

Then one mistake in the defensive back, and the feel good story of the tournament was able to live on. Aya Miyama capitalized on the USA inability to clear the ball out of the box and Miyama pushed it past Hope Solo in the 81st minute to even the score 1-1.

The match remained 1-1 until the 104th minute, when Abby Wambach headed on another overtime goal for USA and a 2-1 lead after the 1st half of overtime.

In the 117th minute and 3 minutes left to glory, Homare Sawa team captain of Japan scored her 5th goal of the tournament and she clinched the “Golden Boot” which is given to the leading goal scorer of the tournament.

In the final minutes Japan was given a red card and team USA had a free kick in front of the box to set up a game winning play, but the ball was cleared and penalty kicks are to come.

Destiny would be on Japan’s side in the penalty shootout, the pressure hit the United States has they failed to convert of their first three penalty attempts. 2-2 (3-1 PK) ends with a victory for the nation of Japan and its country.

I understand supporting your country, but like I said in my story prior to the final, how could you root against Japan and what a victory could do for its nation. Although I am disappointed to see the USA lose, I can’t help but look in amazement how Japan fought and overcame adversity to be the Queens of the World Cup.